In a heart-warming moment on Newsfile on JoyNews on Saturday, March 14, 2026, panellists on the programme, Ghana’s leading current affairs analysis show, surprised host Samson Lardy Ayenini with a live birthday celebration during the latter part of the broadcast.

Mr Senyo Hosi, one of the guests on the show, read a heartfelt birthday message live on air, catching Mr Ayenini off guard and delighting viewers with the unexpected gesture.

“For years, Samson, you have held Newsfile with grace, a steady mind in Ghana’s public space — a senior lawyer whose wisdom lights the way, a voice that helps the nation to think each Saturday. Beyond the cameras, your service runs deep.

“Pro bono battles fought for those who could not speak — a true voice for the voiceless. You stood with journalists, you stood with the weak, you stood with the poor, you stood with Ghana when storms grew loud. You are a quiet shield, an unwavering and honourable soul. We stand with you today; we are all proud,” Mr Hosi continued.

“So today we pause the arguments, the sound bites and the chats to celebrate the man with one of Ghana’s biggest hearts. Samson, may this new year crown you with joy. Happy birthday and thank you for the service and justice you have delivered,” he concluded.

The lively moment brought laughter and cheer to the studio, offering a light-hearted close to an otherwise serious programme and highlighting the camaraderie between the host and guests on the popular current affairs show.

An elated Mr Ayenini, in his usual soft-spoken and calm demeanour, appeared visibly surprised and could only briefly express his appreciation to the team for the honour done him.

More About Mr Ayenini

Mr Ayenini rose to national prominence through his work with Multimedia Group Limited, where he serves as a senior journalist and broadcaster. He is widely recognised as the long-time host of Newsfile on JoyNews, one of Ghana’s most influential weekend current affairs programmes.

On Newsfile, he moderates high-level discussions involving politicians, policy experts, civil society actors and government officials. The programme focuses on governance, law, economics and public accountability, making it a key platform for national debate.

He has hosted the show for nearly 18 years out of the 30 years that Joy FM has existed.

Legal Career

Samson is a founding partner of A-PARTNERS @ LAW. He was previously with Osu-based Gaisie Zwennes Hughes & Co. He has an LL.M in and with a practice focus on International Commercial and Investment Arbitration. He is also a media practitioner, trainer and consultant.

He has consulted for and delivered special papers for professional institutions and special organisations, including the UNESCO, the Judicial Service of Ghana, the Graphic Communications Group Ltd, and the local chapter of the global watchdog Ghana Integrity Initiative and Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, CDD/CODEO.

He has collaborated with the NCCE, the CDD and others to promote good governance and was a major crusader for the passage of the Right To Information Law.

He has served/serves on committees/boards of the University of Education – Winneba, Law School and School of Languages of the University of Ghana – Legon, Chairman of the GFA NC Disciplinary Committee, which worked to restore the beautiful game after Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ #12 expose. He has served on a committee of the RTI Commission.

Samson was one of two Africans appointed to the Board of International Lawyers Assisting Workers (ILAW) Network under the auspices of the Solidarity Centre, working with the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC).

He is a Fellow of The Aspen Institute’s Africa Leadership Initiative - West Africa (ALIWA). He has been invited as a guest lecturer at home and abroad, including at LEGON, GIMPA, UPSA and Smith College (Northampton, MA).